“The Citizens are actively searching for defensive reinforcements and boss Manuel Pellegrini believes the Brazilian would be a perfect partner for captain Vincent Kompany.

“Prizing the 30-year-old away from Allianz Arena is unlikely to be an easy task given that he is regarded as an important member of the squad by the club.

“Dante has a contract until June 2016 in Munich, but having paid just €4.7 million for his services, the Bavarians might be ready to sell if the price is right.”

If Dante isn’t enough, there is also a link to another top European star, with Club Call suggesting Isco could fill the boots of the injured Samir Nasri – though it seems the piece was written before Samir announced he would be back in a couple of months.

Nonetheless, they report: “Manuel Pellegrini is now looking to bring in possible reinforcements to cope with the loss of the former Arsenal man who has been in impressive form in the club's march to the top of the Premier League.

“Spain international Isco, who played under Pellegrini at Malaga, has been linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium.

“The 21-year-old snubbed City to join the Spanish giants in the summer but he has struggled for first-team action under Carlo Ancelotti at the “Bernabeu and might now fancy a move to the Premier League.

Isco would be cup-tied for City's Champions League games but would be a very useful acquisition for the upcoming glut of fixtures in the Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup.”

One story that is bound to pique the interest of all City fans (if the top two didn’t do it for you), namely the possibility of former fans’ favourite Nigel de Jong returning to Manchester – though there is a dark twist to this snippet.

Sports Direct News write: “AC Milan midfielder Nigel de Jong has seen a potential move back to the Premier League cast into doubt after the sacking of coach Massimiliano Allegri on Sunday.

“Reports in Italy last month had suggested that the Dutch international could be in line for a shock return to former club Manchester City, whilst links elsewhere claimed that cross city rivals Manchester United also had their eye on him with a view to making a move.

“However, Milan’s dismissal of Allegri puts the midfielder’s future in the balance as it will delay any possible move or even wipe it off the board completely as the club may decide to hang on to him after all.”

The Enforcer in a red shirt? Perish the thought!

Finally, TalkSport have picked up on a story from Italy suggesting one of the Blues’ current holding midfielders could be on his way to Serie A.